Where did my Resolution Go?

[Hardprint]

While working to combine two high res images, I notice that the end result is grainy and pixelated.
Upon closer inspection, I see that both images are pixelated when I open them in PSP 2018 where as when opened in PSP 8.1 they remain sharp.
Once edited and saved from PSP 2018 and opened in PSP 8.1, the images remain pixelated.
I presume there's a setting that I'm missing.
Anyone know what that might be?
Alex

[Jean-Luc]

Save in PNG format which produces no surprise...
JPG compression rate in PSP must be set before to save. If not, it saves with a default compression rate (to high) or with the last setting which could be not appropriate.

[Joelle]

When saving an image, you need to set the compression:

Save As (the F12 key)>Options>Set Compression: I use 1. Less chance of losing quality when re-saving.

Joëlle

[Hardprint]

Thank for your input.
Oddly enough, when I began working again, the resolution was fine.
Both opened and saved (as PNG and as JPG) images look 'picture perfect and, as far as I know, I didn't change a thing.
Happy camper now.
Alex